MACEDONIA, Ohio – Crews are currently working to clean up the aftermath of a sodium hydroxide explosion at a chemical plant near Interstate 271 in Macedonia. The incident occurred when a tanker truck carrying the highly caustic material exploded while parked outside the Royal Chemical Company along South Freeway Drive, resulting in injuries to three individuals, as confirmed by fire officials.
The explosion left two people critically injured, with one individual still in the hospital with life-threatening injuries, according to an update from the city. The names of the individuals involved have not been disclosed at this time. The cause of the explosion is currently under investigation and has not been determined yet.
Upon arrival, fire crews found the tanker truck torn in half, with a portion of it thrown inside the building, and debris scattered across the property and roof, according to a statement released by officials. A Summit County hazardous materials team was able to successfully contain the chemical spill.
Following the incident, Freeway Drive was closed for most of the day but has since reopened as of just before 8:30 p.m., as mentioned in the official release. EnviroServe, a Cleveland-based company, has been tasked with overseeing the cleanup and recovery operations at the site, approved by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. The plan includes the cleaning of a drainage ditch on the building’s east side and the decontamination of other vehicles parked nearby.
Efforts are ongoing as emergency response teams and cleanup crews work to address the aftermath of the explosion and ensure the safety of the surrounding area. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and cleanup operations continue.